POLICE are hunting men they believe are part of a gang of bogus callers who struck in two North-East communities in one day.

The team of three men, claiming to be water company officials, made off with hundreds of pounds after a distraction burglary in Simpson Street, Stanley, County Durham, at about 4.20pm on Tuesday.

One stayed in the kitchen with the occupant, while the other two searched the house.

The same gang is believed to have targeted a 76-year-old woman in nearby Tanfield Lea, at about 3.40pm the same day.

Again, one sat in the kitchen with the pensioner, while the other two searched her home.

The trio were disturbed when the pensioner's daughter and 11-year-old grandson arrived. They left empty-handed.

The first is described as white, in his early 30s, 5ft 5in, of medium build, and fair hair that was spiky at the front. He had fair facial stubble and spoke with an Irish accent.

The second was white, aged 25, and about 5ft 5in and stocky, with thick, black, greasy hair, with dark stubble.

A third man was described as white, aged 19 or 20, about 5ft 3in, thin, clean shaven, with short, light coloured hair.

All three wore dark blue, V-neck jumpers with a blue shirt and tie.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on (01207) 232144.